Geopotential

/dʒiːoʊpəˈtɛnʃəl/ noun

Definition

In geophysics and meteorology, the potential energy of a unit mass of air relative to the Earth's surface, used in weather prediction and atmospheric analysis.

Etymology

From geo- (earth) + potential (possible energy), combining to describe the energy potential of atmospheric conditions. A technical term from 20th-century meteorological science.

Kelly Says

Geopotential is what meteorologists use to predict where storms will form and move—it's the mathematical expression of how the Earth's gravity and temperature differences organize the atmosphere into patterns, making weather predictable enough to warn you about hurricanes.

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